As I walked by three ladies huddled over a catalog, the voice of one rung out with crystal clarity, “I just love that cross! It’s gorgeous!”

As a guy, this struck me as a moment of friendship and fellowship among some Christian ladies joyfully participating in a wish list shopping experience. In the relaxed climate of friendship, someone shared her appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of some jewelry.

As a Christian, I wondered whether any of them heard what was said. A gorgeous cross?

Don’t misunderstand. We should be deeply grateful for whenever someone has a profound appreciation for Christ’s death. Furthermore, we ought to rejoice whenever disciples are emboldened to identify themselves with Christ crucified within the public realm.

Yet, somehow her words sounded more like a response to a marketing ploy than the torn flesh of one hanging from the cross beam for her. After all, how does “a gorgeous electric chair” or “a gorgeous noose” strike you?

Passing within ear shot to simply catch a few words, I may have completely misunderstood. My hope is that whether those ladies wear cross jewelry or not, that none of them will trivialize the price paid for their lives.

Writing to Christians, Peter wrote, “You are … a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9).

My prayer is that all of us will proudly and publicly acknowledge our absolute dependence upon God’s Son, who died for us and was risen again. Let’s focus on the message, not the medium.

by Barry Newton @ www.forthright.net